Barbados will have a new Ambassador to CARICOM come December 1. He is noted historian, educator and veteran trade unionist, the Hon. Robert "Bobby" Morris.
Formerly the Deputy General Secretary of the Barbados Workers Union, 64-year old Mr. Morris brings a wealth of experience and a wide grasp of regional and international issues to his new position. A former history lecturer and currently lecturer in collective bargaining and disputes resolution, he was Personal Assistant to National Hero, the late Rt. Excellent Frank Walcott; Director of Industrial Relations over the past 20 years; and also served two terms as a Member of Parliament in the Lower House. He served as Vice President of the Caribbean Congress of Labour, and as External Collaborator with the International Labour Organisation.
Mr. Morris has pointed out that he expects to advance those regional issues that are central to Barbados’ future, and stated: "I aim to bring to bear those problem solving skills which I have acquired over the years to any issues that need a negotiated resolution. In the main, I hope to work to build bridges and work with politicians and technocrats to make this region the model for such movements."
Commenting on the appointment, Prime Minister Freundel Stuart said: "Bobby Morris’ history and parliamentary background should serve him in good stead. He is a regionalist at heart; so, that and his commitment to the further development of Barbados would ensure that he adequately addresses this country’s interests.
"Indeed, he is of the generation deeply committed to the regional integration movement, and this was expressly manifest during his time in Parliament when he spoke eloquently and passionately to these issues. The Ambassador designate is also well abreast of current affairs, and I am sure he will do Barbados proud," the Prime Minister observed.
Mr. Morris will be based in Bridgetown.